Whalewatching hotspots: five of the best

Watch whales in their natural habitat in one of these five destinations.

Canada

What: Canada’s chilly seas are perfect for whale-watching, especially in British Columbia’s west coast; Newfoundland, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia on the east coast. Watch the massive marine mammals from small yet speedy boats, larger cruise yachts, kayaks or even by snorkelling alongside the creatures. See: canada.travel

Killer Whales credit: BirdImages/iStock

Iceland

What: Reykjavik’s harbour is awash with boats offering whale-watching tours. It’s possible to spot killer whale orcas, humpback whales, pilot whales, minke whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises. The best time to spot whales is in spring and summer. See: visiticeland.com

Pilot Whales credit: vojta/iStock

UK

What: You don’t have to go too far afield to see whales. Orkney and Shetland Islands, the Moray Firth, the Scottish west coast and Cardigan Bay in Wales are all hotspots to see these majestic giants. See: seawatchfoundation.org.uk.

Minke Whale credit: ekvals/iStock

Hawaii, United States

What: Humpbacks are drawn to the shallow waters off Maui from December to May. Watch the whales playing, tail slapping and blowing spouts in the air while on a boat tour. Find a tour by visiting the kiosks lining Lahaina harbour. See: gohawaii.com

Humpback Whale credit: adwalsh/iStock

Boston, United States

What: Mid-April to mid-October is the best time to go whale watching in Boston. Expect to see migrating humpbacks, fin and minke whales as well as dolphins. Humpback whales put on the best display, breaching and tail slapping. See:bostonusa.com